Acts of gun violence are acts of terror. As a foundation dedicated to improving the health of Californians, we know that gun violence forces children, families, and communities into a toxic environment of fear and trauma.
Over the weekend, an act of gun violence struck down Nipsey Hussle, born Ermias Asghedom. Nipsey was a beloved son and brother of South Los Angeles. He was a hip-hop artist, a father and an entrepreneur who supported and invested in his community. He opened Vector 90, a youth center offering classes in science, technology and math; renovated World on Wheels skating rink; fixed playgrounds and basketball courts; was an employer who provided jobs; and was a key partner in Destination Crenshaw, an open-air museum now in development that will celebrate the contributions and history of Black Los Angeles in the neighborhood where he grew up.
In many ways, South LA has been a community on the rise because of the efforts of residents like Nipsey. But once again, the people of South LA must find a way to heal in the wake of tragedy, and we should all be looking for ways to support that healing. The sad truth is that in the week prior to Nipsey’s death, there were 26 other shooting victims and 10 gun deaths in and around South LA. Many are concerned that increasing violence in the community may undermine the progress being made.
Like so many others who have spent the last few days mourning Nipsey, this loss struck me in a raw and visceral manner. He was a Black man relatively close to me in age, a brother, father, partner, a friend to so many, a collaborator and ally of those I respect and admire, and a man who was so much more than music.
As Nipsey reminded us in a 2011 interview, gun violence is “not normal.” It jeopardizes every aspect of our lives, whether that be our schools, our businesses, or our ability to trust and connect with one another. The surreal nature of this moment defies logic, but it is clear that we need more than prayers. We must interrogate the question “why” and then act. We must work together to honor Nipsey Hussle’s life, and the lives of countless others who have been senselessly lost to violence, by supporting the people of South LA and investing in efforts to prevent violence and comprehensively address its root causes.
Take Action
Support these organizations working to prevent violence in South Los Angeles. All the interventionists are working each and every day in service to community.
- 2nd Call, www.2ndcall.org
- Community Coalition, cocosouthla.org
- Brotherhood Crusade, brotherhoodcrusade.org
